Cultural Resources Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the globalized era, the focus on Cultural Resources Managers is increasingly significant.

As societies continue to value and preserve their cultural heritage, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, protect, and promote these resources is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Cultural Resources Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager creating the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the management of cultural resources,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Cultural Resources Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Cultural Resources Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Cultural Resources Managers are responsible for the management and preservation of cultural, historical, and archaeological resources.

They are also involved in planning and implementing programs and initiatives that promote cultural heritage.

The duties and responsibilities of a Cultural Resources Manager include:

• Developing and implementing plans for the management and preservation of cultural resources.
• Performing research to identify and document cultural resources.
• Working closely with government agencies, community groups, and other stakeholders to ensure the protection of cultural resources.
• Planning and overseeing archaeological excavations and other fieldwork.
• Preparing and presenting reports on the status of cultural resources.
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to cultural resources management.
• Conducting educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about cultural heritage.
• Developing relationships with indigenous communities and other cultural groups to respect and honor their cultural heritage.
• Maintaining records and databases related to cultural resources management.
• Applying for grants and managing budgets related to cultural resources projects.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Cultural Resources Manager to oversee and manage our organization’s cultural heritage projects.

The Cultural Resources Manager is responsible for coordinating and supervising cultural resource management projects, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

Candidates should have deep knowledge and understanding of cultural resource management, archaeology, anthropology or a related field.

Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills are essential for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage cultural resource management projects
• Coordinate with various stakeholders including local communities, government agencies, and private organizations
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations
• Prepare and review project reports and documentation
• Develop and implement policies and guidelines related to cultural resource management
• Conduct research to support project planning and development
• Provide expert advice on cultural heritage issues
• Train and supervise staff members
• Manage project budgets and resources
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in cultural resource management or a related field
• Degree in archaeology, anthropology, heritage management, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of cultural heritage laws and regulations
• Excellent leadership and team management skills
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Strong organizational and project management skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cultural Resources Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent travel to project sites. Some remote work may be possible.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Cultural Heritage or related senior management.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Dependent on experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cultural Resources Manager Do?

Cultural Resources Managers work in various settings such as museums, heritage sites, government agencies, and consulting firms.

They play an important role in preserving, managing, and promoting cultural heritage and resources.

Their primary role involves managing and overseeing the preservation and enhancement of cultural resources such as historic sites, artifacts, and collections.

They conduct research and analysis to determine the cultural, historical, or archaeological significance of these resources.

Cultural Resources Managers also develop and implement policies and procedures for the effective management of these resources.

They coordinate with other professionals such as archaeologists, historians, and anthropologists to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the cultural resources.

Additionally, they work on preparing budgets, grant proposals, and reports related to the management of cultural resources.

They may also organize exhibitions, educational programs, and public outreach activities to promote cultural awareness and appreciation.

In some cases, Cultural Resources Managers are also involved in the legal aspects of cultural resource management, ensuring compliance with national and international laws, regulations, and guidelines related to cultural heritage preservation.

Overall, their job is to ensure that cultural resources are preserved, interpreted, and presented in a manner that respects their cultural significance and enhances the public’s understanding and appreciation of their value.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Cultural Resources Manager should possess a combination of technical know-how, interpersonal skills, and industry expertise, such as:

• Having a comprehensive knowledge of cultural preservation laws and practices to ensure that all procedures are in line with the necessary regulations and standards.
• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including the general public, government agencies, and indigenous communities.
• Excellent research and analytical skills to identify, evaluate, and manage cultural resources effectively.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges that may arise in preserving and managing cultural resources.
• Strong leadership and team management skills to lead and motivate a team towards achieving common goals.
• Outstanding organizational skills to manage multiple projects and resources concurrently and effectively.
• Experience in grant writing and fundraising to secure the necessary funding for cultural preservation projects.
• Technical skills to use and understand GIS, CAD, and other relevant software for mapping and documentation purposes.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Experience Requirements

Cultural Resources Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, museum studies, or a closely related field.

Their education provides them a basic understanding of cultural resources and their management.

They usually have around 2 to 5 years of experience in the field.

This experience may be obtained through positions such as Museum Curator, Cultural Resources Specialist, or Historic Preservationist.

During this time, they gain practical exposure to the preservation and management of cultural resources.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have worked in interdisciplinary teams, collaborated with stakeholders, and have overseen the work of others in the field.

These individuals may have established relationships with tribal and community groups and may have developed strategic plans for cultural resource management.

Those with more than 7 years of experience are often skilled in negotiating and consulting on matters of cultural resource preservation and legal compliance.

They may have been involved in managing larger projects, developing programmatic agreements, and working closely with state or federal agencies.

Candidates with this level of experience are often prepared to take on managerial responsibilities, including staff supervision, budgeting, and overall direction of cultural resource programs or projects.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Education and Training Requirements

Cultural Resources Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, cultural resource management or a related field.

They require a strong understanding of local, state, and federal cultural resource laws and regulations.

Many roles may require a master’s degree in cultural resource management, historic preservation, or a related field.

This further education allows the Cultural Resources Manager to gain specialized knowledge and skills in managing and preserving cultural assets.

Some roles may also demand experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), project management, and environmental consulting.

Certifications in cultural resource management, museum studies or heritage interpretation could be advantageous and demonstrate the individual’s dedication to the field.

Knowledge of a second language can also be beneficial, depending on the cultural resources being managed.

In addition to education and certification, successful Cultural Resources Managers often have several years of practical experience working with cultural resources in some capacity.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Salary Expectations

A Cultural Resources Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $64,670 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on level of education, years of experience in the field, the location of employment, and the funding resources of the hiring institution.

 

Cultural Resources Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cultural Resources Manager need?

Cultural Resources Managers should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

They should have strong project management and organizational skills to oversee various cultural projects.

A good understanding of heritage management, cultural policies, and a keen interest in arts and culture are also essential.

 

Do Cultural Resources Managers need a degree?

While specific requirements might vary among organizations, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as history, archaeology, or anthropology is typically required for a Cultural Resources Manager position.

Many organizations prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher.

Additionally, experience in cultural resource management, heritage conservation, or a related field is often highly valued.

 

What should you look for in a Cultural Resources Manager resume?

When evaluating a resume for a Cultural Resources Manager position, look for a solid educational background in a relevant field.

Check for professional experience in managing cultural resources, including planning and implementing cultural programs and projects.

Familiarity with legal and ethical issues related to cultural heritage management, and any additional skills such as grant writing, public speaking, or proficiency in a second language can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Cultural Resources Manager?

A good Cultural Resources Manager is passionate about cultural heritage and preservation.

They should have strong leadership skills, a high degree of cultural sensitivity, and an ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Attention to detail, good problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously are also important.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cultural Resources Manager?

Finding the right Cultural Resources Manager can be challenging due to the specific combination of skills and knowledge required for this role.

It is important to clearly outline the job requirements in the job posting and during the interview process, and be ready to offer competitive remuneration and professional development opportunities to attract the best candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken you behind the scenes to reveal what it truly means to be a Cultural Resources Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not all about preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

It’s about weaving the rich tapestry of our past into the vibrant fabric of our future, one artifact at a time.

With our comprehensive Cultural Resources Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to embark on your journey.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating accurate job listings or polishing your resume to pristine precision.

Remember:

Every artifact, every story, is a part of the broader cultural narrative.

Let’s preserve that heritage. Together.

How to Become a Cultural Resources Manager (Complete Guide)

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